Equal Franchise Society facts for kids
The Equal Franchise Society (EFS) was a group in the United States that worked to get women the right to vote. This is called women's suffrage. Many wealthy women joined this society. It helped them get involved in politics in a way that felt comfortable. For example, the New York group often held meetings outside the Colony Club. Many members belonged to this club. After talking about voting rights, they would go inside for lunch. The EFS even invited people who were against women voting to discuss ideas.
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The Society's Beginnings
Katherine Duer Mackay started the Equal Franchise Society. She founded it in New York City in 1908. Mackay was also the first president of the group. Their very first meeting was held at her home on December 21. At this meeting, they agreed on the group's rules. They also chose who would lead the society. Later, Mackay rented offices for the group's meetings. These offices were in the Madison Square Building.
What the Society Hoped For
Katherine Mackay had big plans for the EFS. She wanted the EFS to bring all women's voting rights groups together. She hoped they could become one strong group. Mackay also believed that men and women should be equal. This meant being equal in everyday life and in politics. She did not want the group to use aggressive or violent methods. She hoped that both rich and working-class women could join. Together, they would work for the right to vote.
Early Goals and Changes
In 1909, the EFS made an important decision. They decided to first focus on getting women the right to vote in New York City. Only after that would they work for voting rights across the country. In 1911, Mackay decided to step down as president. She said she did not have enough time to lead the group anymore.
Expanding to Other States
The Equal Franchise Society also grew outside of New York. For example, a chapter of the EFS was started in Nevada. Jeanne Wier formed this Nevada group in 1910.
